German Roach Control - Using Roach Baits

Most of us have had a German roach infestation in our homes. Even seeing just a couple in your kitchen or bathroom means that there are many reproducing out of sight.

Sanitation

Although they are quite hardy and can survive in the harshest of enviroments, the German roaches have the basic needs of food, water and shelter. Sanitation is one of the most important control measures for German roach elimination. Keep sinks, counters, and surface areas dry and free of food and grease particles. Consider caulking cracks and crevices to exlude harbor areas.

Control and Elimination of German Roaches

Most insecticide sprays and bombs will kill some roaches, but are unlikely to eliminate German roaches infestation no matter what the label may claim. Insect Growth Regulators (IGR), dusts, and baits are the most effective methods of German roach elimination.

Step 1.

Inspect for roach feces to determine the German roach shelters or harbor areas. A strong flashlight is vital to look for the droppings (excrement) which look like ground black pepper. Open cabinet and utensil drawers and pull out or move electrical appliances such as refrigerators.

Step 2.

The roach bait and IGRs are placed where the droppings are located. The most effective roach baits are gel or dust baits such as Invct Roach Bait,Advion Evolution Gel Bait, Vendetta Roach Bait, and Advert Flowable. The Invict, Advion and Maxforce baits should be placed in pea sized bait placements.

Avert Flowable is a dust bait that is noted for its ability to flow back into hidden areas.

There are several IGR's (Insect Growth Regulators-that cut the population growth); the best is Tekko Pro.

Roach bait stations are generally less effective but will not dry out as quickly as the gel baits. Roach bait stations are best used under maintenance conditions. Recommended roach bait stations are Advion Cockroach Bait Arena bait stations.

Step 3:

Once the German roach population is eliminated, clean the areas of infestation. Completely wipe the area with Sterifab or Pine Sol. The exoskeleton of German Roach carry know allergens, a concern for asthma conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions About German Roach Control and Bait Usage

1. How much bait should I use?

This depends on the size and scope of the infestation. We suggest one to two tubes of gel or bait dust, if you are treating the kitchen only. Add two more tubes of bait gel or bait dust if you are treating other parts of your home.

2. How long does the bait last?

Basically, the bait lasts until the German roaches quit eating the bait. This answer is not necessarily a precise answer, but it is a correct one. We recommend adding more bait after tow to three weeks to keep the bait fresh and enticing. If you use an IGR with the bait, it normally takes about three weeks for elimination. If you do not use an IGR, it takes about 4-5 weeks for complete elimination.

3. How do I keep German roaches from coming back?

We suggest using Avert Flowable bait as a long term choice. It stays active for a long time. It is not only a bait but acts like a tracking powder for roaches. This powdery roach bait attaches to roaches and is ingested as the groom themselves. The bait is limited to cracks and crevices and under appliances. It is designed to work with gel baits because the gel baits can be placed on open surfaces.

4. Can I spray with the bait?

Most sprays will contaminate the bait which makes it inedible to roaches. Orthene and Alpine can be used with the baits, but this is usually not necessary. Orthene and Alpine are non-repellents, they will not contaminate the bait.